Grand Rapids Press File PhotoDevelopers of a proposed Grand Rapids urban market at this former produce distribution center are in line to get a portion of the new taxes it generates paid back as part of an effort by the Downtown Development Authority to support the project.

Blighted, contaminated and functionally obsolete properties are costly to redevelop. Yet the state recognizes that these so-called brownfield redevelopment projects can be economic drivers for cities such as Grand Rapids.

Brownfield programs provide incentives to invest in property that has been used for industrial, commercial or residential purposes and keep or return that idled urban land to productive use.

The ambitious urban market plan is an opportunity for smarter land use and job creation. The City Commission knew this when it unanimously approved the plan, paving the way for it to be among 11 that were awarded brownfield tax credits this month. Collectively, the projects are expected to generate more than $406 million in new investment for struggling communities.

The urban market proposal received a credit valued at $5.4 million to support a plan to transform the old Sonneveldt Produce Co. facility. The renovated warehouse buildings at 435 Ionia Ave. SW and 109 Logan St. SW will include indoor areas for multiple vendors, a year-round fresh food market, space for an outdoor farmer’s market, restaurants, educational facilities, food processing, a rooftop greenhouse and other mixed-use components. The project is projected to generate $31 million in new, private investment and create 290 jobs.

The Downtown Development Authority owns the 3.5-acre site, and has a reputation for being good stewards of the assets it controls. A nonprofit corporation will ultimately be responsible for overseeing the operation.

Grand Action, the private group that led efforts to build the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place Convention Center, is spearheading the urban market plan. The group, which created the new LLC for this project, has a track-record for success and has done its homework on the project, including a feasibility study conducted last year.

Brownfield tax credits can be game changers. In this case, the credit could pave the way for six derelict and vacant buildings to become a vibrant destination for residents and visitors. The alternative: allowing the buildings to remain too big and costly to tackle.

Though smaller in its conceptual form, the project would be modeled on similar successful urban markets in Columbus, Ohio, Milwaukee, San Francisco and Seattle. The market, projected to open in 2013, will add to the growing activity in the heart of the city’s entertainment district.

The state also gave the nod to the Gilmore Collection proposal to expand the popular downtown entertainment and restaurant venue, the B.O.B.

A tax credit worth $4.5 million will support the construction of a four-story, mixed-use space that will accommodate concerts and festivals, as well as retail and hotel condo suites.

According to the state, the Bobville project will generate $24.1 million in investment and create 94 jobs. This venture can add to Grand Rapids’ entertainment options, helping to create a more dynamic downtown.

The energy surrounding these projects can be the catalyst for other projects and jobs. If downtown is to become a more interesting place to visit, shop, and live, there has to be a willingness to invest in a vision. An urban market would be a sight to behold.

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